Live your retirement Bloghttps://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog
The reference for retirement, senior living and housingThu, 29 Aug 2019 11:24:07 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.2.10From Sears To Senior Housing Facility: Redevelopment of A Former Sears Sitehttps://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/from-sears-to-senior-housing-facility/
https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/from-sears-to-senior-housing-facility/#commentsWed, 28 Aug 2019 15:00:50 +0000https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/?p=2239Source The bankrupted Sears store, the iconic retail chain, in the vacant shopping mall in upstate New York, is going to have a second life. Developers are working to repurpose the Sears store into a senior housing apartment to accommodate the increasing demand for senior living. Last September, the Irondequoit Planning Board approved a $43 […]

The bankrupted Sears store, the iconic retail chain, in the vacant shopping mall in upstate New York, is going to have a second life. Developers are working to repurpose the Sears store into a senior housing apartment to accommodate the increasing demand for senior living.

Pathstone Corporation and an adult daycare center from St. Ann’s Community are the first two tenants confirmed for the redevelopment. According to town documents, Pathstone Corp. will redevelop the vacant Sears into 72 new apartments.

The company will also construct an adjacent five-story building with 96 apartments. Both buildings would be connected via a skyway.

With the increasing baby-boomer population and growing demand for senior housing guaranteed to increase over the next decade, defunct hotels, offices, schools, and commercial buildings can be redeveloped into the senior housing facilities. Repurposing old buildings provide a way to combat a lack of suitable sites and rising land costs that make it challenging to secure prime sites for senior housing.

According to St. Ann’s Community Assistant Administrator Bill Robinson, the demand for senior care programs is growing. St. Ann’s provides assisted living, health care services, and customized medical-based adult day program for seniors.

The community currently has 30 senior care residents in Irondequoit and is looking to double the number. According to Robinson, St. Ann’s currently cannot accept new clients until an existing one leaves.

It suggests a growing need for senior housing in Irondequoit, but there are only a few sites suited to build new senior housing facilities. Pathstone has a senior housing complex in Irondequoit with a long wait list of interested tenants, and growth projections indicate an increasing demand for senior housing in the coming decade.

The Skyview on the Ridge mall has a prime location and is close to services, like doctors, grocery, shopping, etc. This 62-acre site is centrally situated near St. Ann’s Community headquarters, Rochester General Hospital, and top retailers such as Home Depot, Target, etc. As of 2018, approximately 415,000 people live within a seven-mile radius of the mall.

Previously, Pathstone repurposed a school building in Albion into a senior apartment and a portion of a former hospital in Canandaigua into cooperative senior rental apartments.

Repurposing Sears into A Fully-Featured Senior Housing

The Sears space in the mall will be repurposed to include open courtyards for natural light and ventilation. Courtyards will also connect residents to the community center and other services available at the redevelopment.

Most will be one-bedroom apartments with a few two-bedroom units. The overall design of the building intends to encourage seniors socializing with their neighbors. Amenities will include sitting areas, a resident community room, and ample lobbies.

Pathstone, with Rochester Regional Health, plans to provide home health care services for residents. Half of the units inside the redevelopment will be allotted for frail elderly renters who can access healthcare services.

Final words

With increasing senior’s population, growing demand for senior housing and redevelopment trends adopted by developers, we can expect more such projects in the years ahead. At the same time, a growing number of seniors could soon be living where they once worked, shopped, or studied.

]]>https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/from-sears-to-senior-housing-facility/feed/0Difference between Long-Term Care and a Nursing Homehttps://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/difference-between-long-term-care-and-a-nursing-home/
https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/difference-between-long-term-care-and-a-nursing-home/#commentsTue, 20 Aug 2019 07:46:29 +0000https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/?p=2232Many people often confuse long-term senior care with nursing home care. Because of this confusion, many people end up making an inappropriate choice for themselves or their senior loved one. Nursing homes focus primarily on providing around the clock medical assistance, while long-term care facilities focus on providing both medical as well as personal support with daily […]

Many people often confuse long-term senior care with nursing home care. Because of this confusion, many people end up making an inappropriate choice for themselves or their senior loved one.

Nursing homes focus primarily on providing around the clock medical assistance, while long-term care facilities focus on providing both medical as well as personal support with daily activities. Though both senior care options have many similarities, such as providing accommodations, access to staff 24 hours a day, they are different.

Read this comprehensive difference between long-term care and nursing home facilities and choose an appropriate care type for your senior.

Definition (Long-Term Care vs. Nursing Home)

Long-term care: Long-term care can be defined as a variety of services designed to cater to a person’s medical and non-medical needs. These services are mostly availed for people with disabilities or chronic illnesses and health issues. Older adults who cannot take care of themselves for long periods of time are assisted by a long-term care facility. Long-term care includes facilities like nursing homes, behavioral health facilities, and rehabilitation facilities.

Nursing home: A nursing home provides care for the elderly or people with disabilities. The care provided in these facilities often includes round the clock medical attention and supervision. Simply put, nursing is a place for people who do not require being in a hospital setting but also cannot be cared for at home. Nursing home falls under the broader category of long-term care.

Long-Term care vs. Nursing Home

Long-term care can be provided at home, in the community, or in various other types of facilities. Mostly, older people who need continuous and longer periods of care are the recipients of this service. On the other hand, a nursing home assists its patients in a more institutional environment.

It is common for long-term care to be provided by family members or friends as it can be provided in more unconventional environments. Non-skilled and custodial care is common in this system. On the other hand, nursing homes are staffed with professionally skilled nurses, social workers, dieticians, etc. The staff members in a nursing home are able to provide formal activity programs as well as clinical care.

A long-term care facility provides for its residents a homely environment. Similar to assisted living communities, long-term care is equipped to care for seniors with more complex and serious health issues that run for a longer period of time.

Residents in long-term care can be discharged from a hospital and remain in a facility on a long-term basis. Nursing Homes are equipped to treat patients for therapy of different kinds. Post-traumatic stress therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, etc. are different types of therapy provided in a nursing home.

Many patients in long-term care stay in these centers or homes until the end of their lives. This is because of the informal environment in which this type of care is usually given. Whereas, when a person is deemed fit and has regained normalcy in a nursing home, they can return back to their homes and live a normal life again.

Conclusion

The two caring facilities are sometimes misunderstood and considered to be alike. There are major differences in the two like we have discussed above. A proper understanding of all the functions and facilities provided by each of them is necessary to provide seniors with an appropriate and their desired lifestyle.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has released the latest results of its annual Senior Housing Survey. The 2019 CMHC regional seniors’ housing report covers all major provinces of Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, Atlantic, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. The results include vacancy rates, rental price, amenities, and other valuable data that concern retirement homes.

The price you pay to live in a senior care facility varies greatly from one province to another. Majority of the residents of retirement communities pay a monthly rent that ranges from 1 453$ to 4 500$ (and higher) on average across Canada. This depends on the size and area of the facility, the type of community, and the number and quality of amenities. The CMHC 2019 report reveals that prices are increasing in almost every province because of the growing demand for senior care communities.

This year’s report reveals many interesting facts. In some areas like Quebec, the vacancy rates for heavy care spaces decreased, while for other provinces such as Ontario, the numbers remained the same. Most areas like Manitoba and Alberta experienced growth in supply. When it comes to average rates, some provinces raised their prices while others stayed stable.

To give you a clearer picture of the 2018 CMHC regional seniors’ housing report, we’re giving you the highlights for main regions.

Ontario

The vacancy rate for standard spaces dropped slightly to 10.3% in 2019 from 10.4% in 2018 in Ontario. For total space, it is a record low of 9.9%. Total supply of seniors’ housing in Ontario rose by 2.4% to 62,633 spaces in 2019 because of increasing demand.

Toronto GTA

Toronto

Total number of units: 6,557

Overall vacancy rate: 5.6%

Average Rent: 4 601$

The demand for retirement communities has increased in Toronto due to which vacancy rate has dropped by 5.4%. The demand is high for semi-private and wards facilities, which has decreased to 10.2 this year from 25.3 last year. The average rent for heavy care spaces has slightly increased from 5,485 in 2018 to 5,626 in 2019. Overall, the demand for senior care centers remains high in Toronto.

Durham

Total number of units: 2,589

Overall vacancy rate: 8.3%

Average Rent: 3 948$

Demand for all types of senior care housing has decreased in Durham. The major decrease is in one-bedroom facilities with a vacancy rate dropped from 2.9 in 2018 to 9.4 in 2019. At the same time, the average rent has also increased, though slightly. Monthly rent for around 59% of senior communities in this region is $4,000 or more.

Halton

Total number of units: 2,841

Overall vacancy rate: 6.9%

Average Rent: 4 608$

Demand for senior housing has slightly dropped in Halton also as compared to last year, while rent has increased in the region. Total 2,941 residents live In 2,841 spaces in the area. One bedroom apartments make up the highest number of spaces (1,446), while semi-private and ward facilities constitute the lowest (49) of the total spaces.

Peel

Total number of units: 3,079

Overall vacancy rate: 10.5

Average Rent: 3 969$

In Peel, demand for private/studio and two or more bedroom facilities has increased, while it has decreased for semi-private & ward and one-bedroom communities. The average rent has also increased slightly in the region. There are a total of 124 semi-private and wards, 1,146 Private/Studio 1,544 one bedroom and 265 2+ bedroom facilities in Peel.

York

Total number of units: 3,660

Overall vacancy rate: 7.0

Average Rent: 4 628$

In York, demand for senior housing has decreased, except that for 2+ bedroom facilities. The vacancy rate for heavy care spaces has almost doubled due to the increasing demand for professional retirement communities in the region.

Central Ontario

Total number of units: 17,150

Overall vacancy rate: 8.7%

Average Rent: 3 514$

The vacancy rate for heavy care spaces in Central Ontario is 8.1% while the average rent is 4 676. There are 945 semi-private & ward, 10,053 private/studio, 5,273 one bedroom and 665 two bedroom units in Central Ontario.

Ottawa

Total number of units: 7,947

Overall vacancy rate: 15.7%

Average Rent: 4 092$

The vacancy rate for heavy care spaces in Ottawa is 14.8%, while the average rent is 5 373$. There are 194 semi-private & ward, 4,727 private/studio, 2,626 one bedroom and 400 two bedroom units in Ottawa.

Eastern Ontario

Total number of units: 6,272

Overall vacancy rate: 12.7%

Average Rent: 3 236$

The vacancy rate for heavy care spaces in Eastern Ontario is 3.7%, while the average rent is 4 177$. There are 359 semi-private & ward, 4,062 private/studio, 1,683 one bedroom and 168 two bedroom units in Eastern Ontario.

Southwest Ontario

Total number of units: 9,673

Overall vacancy rate: 10.8%

Average Rent: 3 298$

The vacancy rate for heavy care spaces in Southwest Ontario is 5.1% while the average rent is 3 829 $. There are 589 semi-private & ward, 5,321 private/studio, 3,339 one bedroom and 424 two bedroom units in Southwest Ontario.

Northern Ontario

Total number of units: 2,865

Overall vacancy rate: 9.5%

Average Rent: 3 018$

Vacancy rate and the average rent for heavy care spaces in Northern Ontario are unknown. There are 37 semi-private & ward, 1,601 private/studio, 1,092 one bedroom and 135 two bedroom units in Northern Ontario.

British Columbia

The overall vacancy rate for all independent living units in seniors’ residence has increased by 4.2% in 2019 in British Columbia. Spaces with low rent remain under high demand as the vacancy rate was recorded the lowest among all rent ranges. Total 324 new senior living spaces added across BC in 2019, 40% of which are based on Vancouver Island/Central Coast.

The average rent for independent living space has also increased by 5.4% to 3 275$ in 2019. The highest rent increase was 22% in bachelor/studio units since there was a decline in such units in most regions.

Lower Mainland

Total number of units: 27,475

Overall vacancy rate: 3.2%

Average Rent: 6 547$

The average rent for heavy care spaces has decreased from 7 419$ in 2018 to 6 547$ in 2019. Average rent in non-urban centers is 267$. In the Lower Mainland, Fraser South has the highest number of spaces for all unit types. There are total 1,848 non-profit and 1,860 profit assisted living units.

Vancouver Island / Central Coast

Total number of units: 12,253

Overall vacancy rate: 4.7%

Average Rent: 6 417$

In Vancouver Island / Central Coast, there are 842 non-profit assisted living units, while the number of profit units is unknown. There are total 1,492 non-urban independent living units in the region.

Okanagan / Thompson / Shuswap

Total number of units: 10,591

Overall vacancy rate: 7.4%

Average Rent: 6 131$

The vacancy rate for independent living rate in Okanagan / Thompson / Shuswap has increased to 6.4% in 2019 from 5.1% in 2018. In the region, Central Okanagan has the highest number of total spaces for all unit types. There are 518 non-profits, and 1,122 profit assisted living units in the region.

Other BC

Total number of units: 4,187

Overall vacancy rate: 2.1%

Average Rent: Unknown

Other BC region has the highest number of bachelor units, while there are only 160 two bedroom spaces. There are 1,871 non-urban senior living centers in this region.

Alberta

As per senior housing in Alberta is concerned, the average monthly rent for a standard space has decreased from 3 296$ in 2018 to 3 258$ in 2019. On the other hand, the average rent for heavy care spaces increased this year, primarily due to higher rents in Edmonton. The total number of spaces has increased by 4.3% to 14,248 in 2019 from 13,655 in 2018. The province has experienced an increase in vacancy rates for these heavy care spaces.

Calgary CMA

Total number of units: 4,878

Overall vacancy rate: 14.0%

Average Rent: 4 016$

The vacancy rate for heavy care spaces in Calgary CMA is 7.7%, and the average rent is 4 878$. There are 2,083 semi-private/ bachelor, 2,235 one bedroom and 560 two bedroom units in Calgary CMA.

Edmonton CMA

Total number of units: 5,854

Overall vacancy rate: 8.7%

Average Rent: 2 794$

The vacancy rate for heavy care spaces in Calgary CMA is 4.9%, and the average rent is 5 854$. There are 1,615 semi-private/ bachelor, 3,076 one bedroom and 771 two bedroom units in Edmonton CMA.

Rest of Alberta

Total number of units: 3,582

Overall vacancy rate: 15.5%

Average Rent: 2 828$

The vacancy rate for heavy care spaces in Calgary CMA is 9.4%, and the average rent is 3 582$. There are 1,648 semi-private/ bachelor, 1,790 one bedroom and 740 two bedroom units in Rest of Alberta.

Quebec

Between 2018 and 2019, the vacancy rate for standard spaces in Quebec rose from 6.9% to 7.2%. The average monthly rent for standard units stood at 1 788$. Heavy care spaces registered a 5.7% increase in vacancy rate in 2019. Market conditions of senior housing in Quebec showed contrasting trends across the regions.

Montréal CMA

Montreal has the highest number of senior living units in Quebec. Around 36.4% of these units charge more than 1 901$ monthly rate. Between 2018 and 2019, the vacancy rate has increased in Montréal. Also, most of the senior living housing in Montreal offer advanced and most-demanded services like on-site medical services, 24-hour call bell, movie theatre, swimming pool, internet access, and many more.

Island of Montréal

Total number of units: 5,579

Overall vacancy rate: 8.1%

Average Rent: 3 796$

The vacancy rate has almost doubled in Island of Montréal, which means demand has increased for senior housing. The average rent has decreased slightly in the region. One bedroom communities make up the highest number of spaces (10,901), while semi-private rooms are the lowest number of spaces (232).

Vaudreuil-Soulanges

Total number of units: 358

Overall vacancy rate: 20.2%

Average Rent: Unknown

Demand has drastically increased in this region, with the vacancy rate tripled this year (from 7.7% in 2018 to 21.1% in 2019). Average rent in this area is unknown according to the CMHC 2019 report. There are only 7.3% of standard spaces that charge rent less than 1 301$. Forty percent of these spaces charge rent 1 901$ or more.

Laval

Total number of units: 914

Overall vacancy rate: 3.4%

Average Rent: 3 356$

The vacancy rate has increased in Laval, which means demand for senior care facilities has decreased in the region. Average rent remains almost the same as that in the previous year. There are 914 private, 22 semi-private, 972 bachelor apartments, 3,054 one-bedroom, and 1,693 multiple bedrooms facilities across Laval.

North Shore

Total number of units: 2,163

Overall vacancy rate: 5.9%

Average Rent: 3 044$

The vacancy rate for bachelor apartments in North Shore has decreased from 5.8% in 2018 to 3.9% in 2019. It means demand for bachelor apartments has increased. The average rent for heavy care spaces has decreased slightly. Currently, total 7,875 seniors live in 68 communities in North Shore.

South Shore

Total number of units: 2,956

Overall vacancy rate: 6.0%

Average Rent: 3 418$

In the South Shore Centre, the vacancy rate has reached from 0.5% in 2018 to 7.2% in 2019. It means there is a major decline in the demand for senior care housing in this region. Average rent remains almost the same as it was in the previous year.

Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu

Total number of units: 692

Overall vacancy rate: 8.2%

Average Rent: Unknown

Demand for one-bedroom apartments has increased in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu as the vacancy rate has decreased from 5.8 in 2018 to 1.4% in 2019. Average rent or heavy care spaces is unknown in this region. There are a total of 692 private room communities, 320 bachelor apartments, 519 one-bedroom, and 179 multiple bedroom apartments.

Québec CMA

Total number of units: 15,301

Overall vacancy rate: 6.5

Average Rent: 3 440$

In Quebec CMA, you will find a higher number of options for one bedroom unit. There are total 6,358, one bedroom units in the region. Moreover, semi-private rooms are the lowest, only 14, senior living unit types. Forty-five percent of units in Quebec cost 1 901$ or more monthly charges.

Saguenay CMA

Total number of units: 2,815

Overall vacancy rate: 4.0

Average Rent: 3 081$

There are no semi-private rooms in Saguenay. However, you will get around 1,047 choices for one bedroom units. Around 73.6% of the total units offer three meals included in the monthly rent.

Sherbrooke CMA

Total number of units: 4,757

Overall vacancy rate: 7.4

Average Rent: 3 655$

The vacancy rate in Sherbrooke CMA has decreased from 10.9% to 8.4%, while the capture rates remain the highest, at about 25%. Also, the average rent for all types of units has increased in this region. Most of the housing facilities offer special amenities, such as on-site shops, recreational services, home support services, and personal assistance services.

Trois-Rivières CMA

Total number of units: 4,339

Overall vacancy rate: 7.8

Average Rent: 3 073$

The vacancy rate for senior housing in Trois-Rivières CMA has increased. Among the total number of residents living in senior housing communities, 3,536 residents live alone, while 463 of them are couples. All facilities offer organized recreational services, while most facilities offer selected amenities, such as home support services, shops, etc.

Gatineau CMA

Total number of units: 3,304

Overall vacancy rate: 6.8

Average Rent: 3 073$

The senior housing market in Gatineau CMA has also seen noteworthy changes this year. However, no senior housing offers meals included in the monthly rent.

Atlantic

There are total 10,432 spaces in the Atlantic region, with Newfoundland having the highest number of senior living spaces. The vacancy rate has significantly dropped to 8.6% in 2019. Estimated, 196,020 of seniors aged 75+ in Atlantic live in senior care facilities.

Newfoundland

Total number of units: 3,801

Overall vacancy rate: 11.9%

Average Rent: 3 003$

In Newfoundland, the vacancy rate has dropped to 7.3%. Ward and semi-private units constitute the biggest share with 1,816 units in the total number of spaces in Newfoundland. Around 31.6 of these units charge 3 500$ monthly rent including 1.5 hours of senior care per day.

New Brunswick

Total number of units: 3,740

Overall vacancy rate: 6.4%

Average Rent: 2 262$

The number of residents decreased by 6%, and the number of standard spaces has also decreased by 14%. There are now 3,740 total spaces in New Brunswick. The average rent of standard spaces has increased by 19% in New Brunswick, though rent is still the cheapest in the Atlantic region.

Nova Scotia

Total number of units: 1,586

Overall vacancy rate: 11.4%

Average Rent: 3 141$

Nova Scotia has the second lowest number of spaces in the Atlantic but has the highest proportion of standard spaces at 92%. The number of standard spaces increased by 20% in the region, while the number of residents has decreased by 9%. The average rent has declined from 3 181$ in 2018.

Prince Edward Island

Total number of units: 1,305

Overall vacancy rate: 4.7%

Average Rent: 3 335$

The average rent for standard spaces in Prince Edward Island remains the highest in Atlantic Canada. There is an increase in affordable Ward/Semi-private standard spaces though the vacancy rate decreased by 7.5%. Also, rent for senior living spaces has increased by 34% in the region. Bachelor or studio units are popular in the market, constituting 36% of the total spaces.

Manitoba

The overall vacancy rate for standard senior housing space has decreased to 3.0% in Manitoba. The overall vacancy rate for total senior spaces remains the same in the Winnipeg CMA as the provincial averages. The average rent for a standard space is 2,819$ in Manitoba. The demand for senior housing remained strong in the province, and Winnipeg CMA has seen a significant rise in the number of residents. The Winnipeg CMA supplied 85% of the total seniors’ housing spaces in Manitoba.

Winnipeg CMA

Total number of units: 4,407

Overall vacancy rate: 2.8%

Average Rent: 2 831$

There are total 551 semi-private/bachelor, 3,005 one-bedroom and 851 two-bedroom spaces in Winnipeg CMA. Only 2.5 of total units cost less than 1 500$ in monthly rent, while 15.2% costs more than 3 500$. If you choose optional services such as cable, telephone, and ancillary services, it would cost you 44$ on average.

Rest of Manitoba

Total number of units: 643

Overall vacancy rate: 2.9%

Average Rent: 2 734$

There are total 96 semi-private/bachelor, 448 one-bedroom and 99 two-bedroom seniors’ housing units in the rest of Manitoba. The average rent for semi-private/bachelor has increased to 2 338$ in 2019 from 2 064$ in 2018. The average rent for a one-bedroom unit is 2 642$, and the two-bedroom unit is 3 553$.

Saskatchewan

The vacancy rate for standard spaces in Saskatchewan retirement homes has edged up to 13.9%, while the number of seniors’ residences has declined slightly to 183 in 2019. Correspondingly, the capture rate fell to 8.7% from 8.8% in 2018 after a decrease in the number of seniors earlier this year. Across Saskatchewan, the vacancy rate for standard spaces remains highest in seniors’ housing residences opened in 2000 or later.

Regina CMA

Total number of units: 1,594

Overall vacancy rate: 15.0%

Average Rent: 3 738$

Heavy care spaces have a vacancy rate of 3.3% and 4 988$ average rent for senior housing in Regina CMA. There are a total of 735 semi-private / bachelor, 732 one bedroom and 127 two bedroom units in this region.

Saskatoon CMA

Total number of units: 3,438

Overall vacancy rate: 10.4%

Average Rent: 2 945$

Average rent in heavy care spaces is 4 740$ while the vacancy rate for such units is unknown Saskatoon CMA. There are total 1,231 semi-private / bachelor, 1,805 one bedroom and 402 two bedroom units in this region.

Rest of Saskatchewan

Total number of units: 2,558

Overall vacancy rate: 17.9%

Average Rent: 2 691$

Heavy care spaces have the vacancy rate of 17.3% and 4 135$ average rent in Rest of Saskatchewan. There are total 1,716 semi-private / bachelor, 738 one bedroom and 104 two bedroom units in this region.

Wrapping Up

Overall, the 2019 CMHC regional seniors’ housing report indicates that retirement homes industry is growing in Canada. The demand is increasing in provinces including Ontario and British Columbia with more residences adding up to meet the demand.

According to Statistics Canada, the seniors’ population in Canada will increase by up to 25 percent by 2063.

In Canada, life expectancy at age 65 has increased over the last few years, reaching 22.1 years for women and 19.3 years for men. The probability of surviving from age 65 to 85 has also increased from 51% in 2004 to 2006 to 57% in 2014 to 2016.

Increasing life expectancy for Canadian older adults and rise in aging population, heavy care spaces may continue experiencing lower vacancy rates in the coming years.

]]>https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/2019-cmhc-regional-seniors-housing-report/feed/0How to Prepare for Senior Living [Moving To Senior Residence Checklist]https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-senior-living/
https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-senior-living/#commentsMon, 13 May 2019 11:33:16 +0000https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/?p=2203 Moving to a senior living community is like moving to a new home. It’s a major life event and is often overwhelming for everyone involved. You want to be certain that the senior living community you have selected treats you or somebody you love with affection, care, and respect. The community should feel like […]

Moving to a senior living community is like moving to a new home. It’s a major life event and is often overwhelming for everyone involved.

You want to be certain that the senior living community you have selected treats you or somebody you love with affection, care, and respect. The community should feel like family and take care of all the needs of your loving seniors. It is certainly difficult for anyone to entrust the care of your beloved elderly to someone else.

However, making a move to senior living is a very positive change. A right senior living community provides all care, support, and entertainment to the elderly, keeping them engaged, happy and fulfilled.

With the aim to give all the help you may need to begin senior living, we have created a plan for you to get organized and make a smooth transition without missing any important details.

How to talk to elderly parents about senior living?

Some seniors are excited about starting a carefree life alongside their peers. But for the majority of adults, the idea of senior living is unsettling.

Open communication is the most important part of your journey to senior living. Having an open, warm dialogue with your loved one gives family members the opportunity to share their feelings.

Experts say you should discuss the perks of senior living with older adults. Take them on a tour of the community and show the life of their peers in senior living communities. With patience and thoughtful communication, you may get them on board with the idea.

How old do you have to be to live in a senior living home?

Honestly, there is no one right age to move to senior living. Every person and every circumstance are different. Some adults choose senior housing as soon as they retire, while others may wait until they are in their 80s or 90s.

To know when is the right time to move to senior living, you can check seniors for signs that indicate that they need extra support, love, and care. If you or your older loved one starts having difficulty in handling routine tasks and feeling isolated, unhappy and lack social life, it means it’s time for a change.

HUD (Department of Housing and Urban Development) requires that at least 80 percent of the units in a senior living community must have one occupant aging 55 years old or older. Most senior age-restricted apartments are 55 or 62+, and no children can live there, even if seniors are legal guardians.

HUD required management to conduct a biennial audit of its residents. Each occupant has to show identification such as:

Drivers license

Military ID

State-issued ID

Immigration card

Passport

Birth certificate

So, you must hold any of these ideas before moving to senior housing.

Many new communities allow younger seniors to live in senior housing. Even if you are under age 55, you can live in a 55+ community given that at least one member of the community is 55 years or older.

How much does senior living cost?

Senior living communities generally have a monthly rate ranging between $1,500 and $6,000. The cost may vary depending on the size of the apartment and types and the number of services you choose. According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2018, the average cost of senior living in 2015 was $3,600 per month.

Many people worry about how to pay for senior care with limited resources. Fortunately, there are many ways to pay for senior living, such as Medicare, reverse mortgage, non-profit resources, etc. These options will help you and your family fit senior living into your budget easily.

Searching for the best senior living facility

The first thing is to decide the level of care you or your loved one needs. Senior living options are:

Independent Senior Living: This option is for seniors who can safely care for themselves. It includes services such as health and wellness programs, dining options, transportation services, socialization, and providing comfort.

Assisted Senior Living: Assisted senior housing provides customized assistant for older adults for daily activities, such as maintaining personal hygiene, cooking, eating and dressing while protecting their dignity, independence, and quality of life.

Continuing Care Retirement Community: Also known as Life Plan Community, these communities provide several levels of care and living options, including independent living, assisted the living, and nursing care.

Memory Care: This type of senior living provides specialized care for individuals who experience cognitive decline.

Once you are sure with the type of senior living you need, the next step is to research, shortlist a few senior living communities near you and then choose the best one. Meet the staff and residents to learn about the community. Every senior living community is different. But there are common questions you must ask before, during and after a visit to a community.

Senior Housing Tour Checklist

Follow this checklist to make an informed assessment during the process:

Assess the social environment

Do you receive a warm greeting from staff as you tour the community?

Does the staff let you interact with other residents on tour?

Do residents appear comfortable and happy?

Does the staff treat each other professionally?

Infrastructure

Do you like the location and appearance?

Do you feel homelike?

Does the infrastructure fit your preferences?

Is the floor plan easy to navigate and accommodating to mobility devices?

Does it avail elevators and handrails?

Does it maintain good lighting, cleanliness and appropriate temperature?

Is it equipped with fire sprinkler systems, smoke detectors, etc.?

Amenities for Lifestyle

What indoor and outdoor amenities and recreational activities they provide.

Do they provide or manage housekeeping, salon and transportation services?

Is there a wellness center at the community?

Do they allow or have their own pets?

Apartments/Rooms

Check sizes and types of apartments or rooms.

Is the emergency response system accessible from each room?

Do seniors have to bring their own furnishings?

Can guests visit and stay overnight?

Do they provide utilities, like telephone, internet, and cable in each apartment or room?

Do they allow smoking in resident rooms or have designated smoking area?

Food Services

Does their menu vary from day-to-day?

Does the community accommodate special dietary requirements?

Can residents have meals in their apartment or room?

Are there set times for meals?

Payments

What is the pricing model for the community?

Are billing, payment, and credit policies fair?

Does the community accept Medicaid, Medicare or long-term insurance, etc.?

Additionally, we recommend checking if the community holds a state license. There should be a suggestion and complaint process in place for residents.

So, the decision has been made to move to senior living! Congratulations for a whole new, exciting and worry-free journey.

]]>https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-senior-living/feed/0How to Afford Assisted Living [7 Ways to Get Financial Help]https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/how-to-afford-assisted-living-7-ways-to-get-financial-help/
https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/how-to-afford-assisted-living-7-ways-to-get-financial-help/#commentsMon, 08 Apr 2019 00:08:48 +0000https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/?p=2184Whether you’re considering assisted living options for yourself or an aging loved one, the cost is the top deciding factor. Many people put off senior care, believing that it could be expensive and they will not be able to pay for it. But with proper planning and a little research, assisted living can be much […]

Whether you’re considering assisted living options for yourself or an aging loved one, the cost is the top deciding factor. Many people put off senior care, believing that it could be expensive and they will not be able to pay for it.

But with proper planning and a little research, assisted living can be much more affordable than many other expensive senior care options.

If you are planning affordable assisted living, check out the following ways to offset the high cost of senior care options:

Veteran’s Aid & Attendance Program for US Residence

If you or your spouse was a wartime survivor with limited income, you might be eligible to receive a non-service connected pension. The Veteran’s Aid & Attendance Pension program provides financial help to seniors who require assistance with daily activities such as bathing, eating, dressing, or taking care of their needs.

Thisprogram pays up to $1,830 monthly to a veteran, $1,176 monthly to a surviving spouse, or $2,170 monthly for a couple.

You can’t receive benefits from both the Veterans program and a state aid program. So determine your needs and evaluate which of these programs can provide you with the highest level of senior assistance.

How Much Does Medicaid Pay For Assisted Living?

Medicaid programs are government-funded programs that vary by state or province.

In the US, the Medicare program covers only adults 65 years or older. You must possess assets and income below the federal poverty levels to qualify for this program. Qualified persons receive long-term facility care, most other costs, and some in-home care services as well.

In many states, individuals may qualify for the Medicaid program even if their income exceeds federal poverty levels. In several states, seniors may also qualify for Medicaid after they’ve spent their income and assets on their health care expenses. Findyour state Medicaid office to check your eligibility and benefits.

However, Canada’s Medicare program covers all Canadian citizens, regardless of age, income level or disability.

Costs of assisted living facilities generally range between $2,000 and $6,000 per month, depending on location. Almost all Medicaid programs cover at least some assisted living costs for qualifying residents.

Set up a Reverse Mortgage

A reverse mortgage is a loan that seniors, often couples, take against their home’s equity. If you’re an American homeowner aged 62 or older or a Canadian 55 and older and have no other option left to pay for assisted living, you can tap your home equity for required cash.

Depending on the type of loan, banks make payments in a single lump sum. The older you are, the more money you can borrow. In the USA, themaximum claim amount is $726,525 as of 2019.

In Canada, theoverall loan amount is capped at 40 per cent for Equitable Bank and 55 per cent of the house’s value for HomeEquity Bank.

Borrowers don’t have to pay back the loan until the last borrower moves out or dies. But they still are responsible for property taxes, home insurance, and maintenance expenses. So make sure you explore this route carefully.

Find Non-Profit Resources

Non-profit senior residences may not be less expensive than for-profit ones. But they often cover residents who run out of funds.

Most of these retirement communities may reduce out-of-pocket expenses and levels of service for seniors staying longer than the average of two years.

But some generous non-profit communities guarantee the continued assistance to seniors who run out of funds, regardless of their level of care at the time they enter.

How Does Medicare pay for assisted living in the US?

In the US,Medicare is a federal health insurance program for seniors 65 or over who have worked full time for 10 years or over. The amount paid is a sum of a mandatory 2.9 % payroll tax on all workers and employers, the monthly premiums paid, and by the government. It has four parts:

Part A (Free for most): Covers hospitalization, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care.

Part B (About $100/month): Covers outpatient services

Part C (Varies in cost): Seniors can get Medicare health plans sold by private insurance companies under Medicare.

Part D: Covers prescription drug costs

Does Social Security pay for assisted living?

In the USA, the Social Security Medicare Program is a health insurance program for citizens 65+ or those with a qualifying disability. The Medicare Savings Programs help eligible seniors with limited income and resources to pay for some or all of their Medicare premiums, deductibles, etc.

Social Security Retirement Insurance Benefits are given to those who age 62 and have earned enough credits. CheckSocial Security Retirement category to learn more about your retirement options.

In Canada,Old Age Security is available to people 65 and over who have lived here for minimum 10 years after turning 18, regardless of work history. Payments are calculated according to the length of your residency in Canada. The maximum payment amount is $551.54 as of April 2014.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Long-term care insurance (LTCI) policy is purchased by an individual to be used for elder care. This is similar to other insurance policies. You pay a premium and the price is set according to the number of years before expected use, amount of coverage, and payout percentage.

Long-term care insurance (LTCI) helps seniors pay for costs that are generally not covered by health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. This type of insurance covers the cost of assisted living, adult daycare, home care, nursing home facility, hospice care, and a few more.

Premiums can be fixed or may increase by a percentage as the policyholder grows older. Make sure you buy LTCI before health issues arise, as most companies don’t insure people with preexisting medical conditions.

Final words

The funding assisted living can be emotionally and financially taxing. However, these options or ways to pay for assisted living can bridge the gap and ensure quality care to your aging loved ones.

]]>https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/how-to-afford-assisted-living-7-ways-to-get-financial-help/feed/0When Is The Right Time To Move To A Retirement Home (Talking With Elderly Parents)https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/when-is-the-right-time-to-move-to-a-retirement-home/
https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/when-is-the-right-time-to-move-to-a-retirement-home/#commentsSun, 10 Mar 2019 04:45:59 +0000https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/?p=2196We all dream of retiring during our working lives. People consider retirement living for various reasons, from health preferences for having a peace of mind in the golden stage of your life. But retirement may not be exciting for everyone. Many people opt for a retirement living blindly and end up stressed out and disappointed. […]

A 65-year-old man spends $189,687 on medical care in retirement, while the average 65-year-old woman spends around $214,565.

Know what healthcare services Medicare or other government plans for seniors and retirees will and won’t cover, and plan accordingly. Make sure you are eligible for government programs for senior living.

Next, examine your total savings and estimate the approximate return on that money as you age. Also consider other things, such as whether you might draw equity from your home.

As a rule of thumb, multiply your expected annual expenses by 25, and once you approach the resultant number, it may be a sign you can stop working.

You no longer enjoy working

Countless stories have been around about older people who are efficient at their work. Their jobs give them purpose and satisfaction that can’t be replaced with a retirement.

But if you’re not among those people and your work is not rewarding, or you find yourself drained of energy at the end of the day, then it may be time to submit your resignation and kick start with your retirement living, assuming that you’ve lined up your finances well.

Declining Health

If you notice complications with your health and difficulties handling daily tasks, it’s a clear sign you must stop working before it is too late. Overlooking your health can cause frequent accidents, especially fall risks, which often become far more serious medical emergencies.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed the shocking statistics related to falls in older adults:

Nearly 25 percent of Americans 65 and older experience a fall each year. An older adult gets an emergency treatment for fall every 12 seconds.

Moreover, if an incident happens and you take a significant recovery time, it means you should consider other living arrangements.

Unstable Emotional State

Living alone is often taxing among older adults. Lose of spouse, health issues, and feeling of anxiety and depression are true concerns associated with senior people. If it sounds familiar, you might consider moving to a retirement home.

In retirement home, you find individuals in similar situations, allowing you new friendships and gain empathy. You get more opportunity to socialize and have fun in your life.

Difficulty with home maintenance

As we grow older, it becomes difficult to maintain a clean home. If you or your parent is struggling with daily maintenance tasks such as cleaning, repairs, cooking, driving, and more than they used to handle efficiently before, it means you should consider retirement living.

In today’s retirement communities, you can choose from a variety of living options, such as independent living apartments, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living and a few more. Many communities offer services such as repair, landscaping, transportation, etc. enabling retirees to live independently without worrying about home maintenance.

Escalating self-care needs

At some point in time, going to the grocery store, buying a cart full of food and uploading it at kitchen cabinets becomes difficult or sometimes, impossible for older adults due to frailty. It results in a poorly maintained diet.

Moreover, as we age, maintaining personal hygiene becomes increasingly more difficult. Aging people need assistance with bathing and maintaining their bodily cleanliness to avoid body odor and associated health issues.

Fortunately, retirement living homes provide assistance with everything from maintaining self-hygiene to taking care of diet, providing an ideal set up for older adults.

If you recognize yourself or your parents in any of these signs, you should consider a move to a retirement home.

How to talk about retirement living with ageing parents?

You love your parents and want to give them proper care. But you are over-occupied with your jobs and kids and lack enough time to take care of your aging parents. So, you want your parents to stop working and move to a retirement home where all their needs will be taken care of properly and seriously.

But the problem is your parent is reluctant to leave you and their home where they have spent many precious years of their life. When this happens, try the following ways to convince them:

Never impose your decision on them. Instead, know their feelings about it and gently explain to them how they’d benefit by choosing a retirement living. Share that retirement community will let them live a maintenance-free, healthy and hygienic lifestyle. Share that they will enjoy making new friends, outing throughout the city and pursuing their hobbies again.

Also, you can make them happy by letting hem know that you would keep visiting, loving and caring for them.

Visit retirement communities with them. If they are open to the idea, you can tour a few retirement homes with them so that they can see what retirement living is like. Looking at individuals of their age happy at these communities may help change their mind.

Talk about someone your parent knows has moved. Ask around to consider someone your parent knows who have recently moved to a retirement home. This can make them feel more comfortable with the idea.

We recommend you to be patient and avoid forcing them into a retirement living. If they enjoy their work, is it suggested to let them be happy and you can play your role as best as possible. Try to spend as much time with your parents as possible and let them participate in social events.

]]>https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/when-is-the-right-time-to-move-to-a-retirement-home/feed/0Make the Best Valentine’s Day Special for Seniorshttps://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/make-the-best-valentines-day-special-for-seniors/
https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/make-the-best-valentines-day-special-for-seniors/#commentsSat, 09 Feb 2019 16:57:47 +0000https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/?p=2161 Alternate topic: Celebrate Senior Love on Valentine’s Day Whether that’s a valentine’s message, a valentine’s song, or a valentine’s gift so long as it’s from your heart, your senior will definitely love it. Remember that for those who are in their old age, simpleness sometimes is the key to their happiness. Visiting and spending […]

Whether that’s a valentine’s message, a valentine’s song, or a valentine’s gift so long as it’s from your heart, your senior will definitely love it. Remember that for those who are in their old age, simpleness sometimes is the key to their happiness. Visiting and spending time with our elderly could be one of the best gifts they’d receive this Valentines. Love is meant to be felt not just for your spouse, partner, children or best friend. Love is something old people feel, too. Especially for them whose beloved have gone way ahead and that they’re surviving through life without them. Being there is the best present.

So love your family, your friends but don’t forget your elders. We often say they’re forgetful, “too old for this”, or simply just not important at the moment. But how would you feel if you’re them? Let’s remember they’ve only gotten old but definitely haven’t forgotten what it’s like to be loved and to love.

“All you need is love!” Just sing it like the Beatles. Valentine’s Day is here and it’s another year to celebrate a day of compassion. Remember it is one of the special holidays where the Valentine spirit will be overflowing like Christmas. Let’s remind them that today is the day of love! Come up with some great ideas for Valentine’s Day. If they intend to date their partner, their new girlfriend or boyfriend, or best senior buddy, help them plan it out. You’d be happy to see they’re just like everybody else, excited to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Let this 2019 Valentine be a day of love, laughter, conversations, visits, and great memories for everyone. Plus the chocolates!

]]>https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/make-the-best-valentines-day-special-for-seniors/feed/0How Volunteering Improves Your Health and Lifehttps://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/how-volunteering-improves-your-health-and-life/
https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/how-volunteering-improves-your-health-and-life/#commentsTue, 05 Feb 2019 12:40:37 +0000https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/?p=2152Would you believe that volunteerism has a value of over $184 billion dollars? Besides its monetary value, statistics show that “volunteering improves health by strengthening the body, improving mood, and lessening stress”. Volunteerhub.com shares these statistics about volunteerism. In a study by Carnegie Mellon University, they published that those who are over 50 volunteering on […]

Would you believe that volunteerism has a value of over $184 billion dollars? Besides its monetary value, statistics show that “volunteering improves health by strengthening the body, improving mood, and lessening stress”. Volunteerhub.com shares these statistics about volunteerism.

In a study by Carnegie Mellon University, they published that those who are over 50 volunteering on regular basis would less likely develop high blood pressure than those who don’t. Understanding the risk of high blood pressure for our seniors and its effects would help us to encourage everyone to volunteer. For those enjoying their retirement, volunteerism is one good habit to keep your lifestyle active.

Here are great long term effects of volunteering.

Increases Self Esteem

The first outright benefit in volunteering is boosting your self-esteem. It creates a sense of pride for the good deed you have done. You realize that you doing something good and you start to think you can do more. It fights away thoughts of helplessness and unworthiness.

Builds Good Network

When you volunteer, you always work with somebody else. By meeting people and working with them, you feel you are socially connected. It creates a new network of friends, colleagues, and people you can talk with. This wards off the feeling of loneliness. At the end of each day you volunteer, you reminisce the experience, the conversations and the people you’ve worked with.

Gives the Happiness Effect

Feeling joy and happiness always comes after volunteering. London School of Economics proved this right when their researches found people are happier after. Remember that feeling good releases endorphins and other brain chemicals that fight stress, and boosts your immune system, too.

Contributes to a longer life

As stated above, when your body feels good it helps and improves your quality of life. A normal blood pressure lessens your risks for heart-related diseases and even premature death.

When we feel joy, our bodies release dopamine and serotonin, which are neurotransmitters. When they are released, our bodies have multiple reactions. It elevates your mood, lowers your heart rate and reduces stress.

Creates purpose

Volunteering helps you find purpose at a time you may feel lonely or isolated. It helps you be responsible for others which in time builds the sense of purpose.

‘How I was helped by helping others‘ was Dr. Susan Nooman’s tagline when she wrote her article about volunteering when depressed. One of the things she emphasizes is that volunteering gives you a sense of purpose and accomplishment which you may have forgotten. It also requires you to dress up nice to be presentable which boosts your feeling of goodness and helps with your depression.

Sets a good example

Many volunteers say that they volunteered because someone they know did. Sharing our happiness is contagious. When we feel happy we want our friends and family to feel that happiness, too. Volunteering not only sets a good example for good deeds but also in building a network of good people. By volunteering, we encourage others to care about people and to share their time and resources.

Teaches New Skills

One great thing about volunteering is that it requires no formal conditions. Your education and work background need not be important. Your desire to help and passion for others will open the opportunities to learn new skills as you work with any organization.

Many develop or realize that they have certain communication skills soon as they start working with groups. To some, they are forced to be leaders and become better at it. To others, learning to be able to communicate improves while they volunteer.

Volunteering to senior homes for the millennials creates an intergenerational bond that benefits both. For the adults, it creates a meaningful experience that is separate from their experiences in the family and at work. To the seniors, their way of life changes because of the involvement of other people. To each, volunteerism creates and builds different benefits that improve one’s life.

Senior and interested in volunteering?

So, if you are 55 years old and above and wants to volunteer. Here are some suggested volunteer opportunities. There are hundreds of them out there so here are just a few recommendations.

If you love kids and would like to spend time with them tutoring or doing one-to-one activities, Senior Corps would work best for you. And some of these children have exceptional needs. There are other activities too like mentoring troubled teens, young mothers and caring for infants. But helping co-seniors and adults are part of Senior Corps, too! They have different activities matching the needs of everyone in the community.

Red Cross always have open opportunities for all sorts of volunteers. So try to find your local Red Cross and see which programs you could regularly volunteer with them. Though Red Cross is known for responding to a disaster and medical care, there are other activities they conduct, too. Training and teaching first aid to youth are just some. So look them up and call them in your area.

3. Animal Shelters

If you love animals, that doesn’t go away when you get old. Find a local shelter like the Toronto Humane Society where you could find some things to do. Some of the tasks could be dog walking, kitten feeding, administrative support, promotions and fundraising and many more. Tag along your four-legged pal if you got one. They’d love to have more company.

4. Your Local Library

If you love books, then this is the best spot to do things. Don’t worry about the carrying of books, there are other volunteers who could do that. Sorting and categorizing are some of the few things that may be needed daily to do in a library. Should you want to be around the books you love, contact the nearest library.

There so many volunteering opportunities if we simply look for them. Non-profit and non-government organizations are very much active these days. Retirees with certain skills are amazingly being sought in different roles. Some roles could be simple too and need not any expertise. Whether you’d like to volunteer local or international, these groups and organizations could find a match for you.

]]>https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/how-volunteering-improves-your-health-and-life/feed/09 Healthy Habits for Seniorshttps://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/9-healthy-habits-for-seniors/
https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/9-healthy-habits-for-seniors/#commentsTue, 22 Jan 2019 14:52:54 +0000https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/?p=2140“Good habits formed at youth make all the difference.” Aristotle is right! And we need to keep that up even when we reach old age. What are healthy habits? The first thing that comes to mind would be exercising and some muscle stretching activities. But mind-stimulating activities can be made fun for our seniors. Researchers […]

“Good habits formed at youth make all the difference.” Aristotle is right! And we need to keep that up even when we reach old age.

What are healthy habits? The first thing that comes to mind would be exercising and some muscle stretching activities. But mind-stimulating activities can be made fun for our seniors. Researchers have shown that mind-stimulating activities can improve senior living. These activities work best for those who have Alzheimer’s, too.

Keep in mind though that as we age, some habits we once love may no longer be interesting now. Try and discover which of these good habits work with our grandparents, our senior companions or those seniors we spend time with. Build it with them so they can turn them to regular hobbies.

1. Cook and Bake

Yes, cooking and baking is fun indeed! Baking allows one to find creativity in their work through decorating and molding. If your senior companion once was a good cook, allow him or her to teach you their specialty. You may be amazed by how well they remember their techniques and secret ingredients.

2. Arts and Craft

This habit seems to be one of the common activities most lady seniors do. They love to cut and craft different things or even make complex designs. Whether it takes them a few minutes to a few hours, allow your seniors to bring out their creativity.

If this is new to them, ask what kind of craft or art would they like to start with. Give them each a try to a few of their choice and see where they excel. A few seniors today even have kind acts of giving things they craft.

3. Read A Book or Study Again

Reading for some is a good pleasure. The power of imagination works best for those who read and write. For some, reading is like traveling. It allows them to envision different things as they read about them.

Today, some seniors return to school. Learning has no end and not only are the seniors rejuvenated, but they also learn new skills. To some, they meet new young friends and find a meaningful way to spend time. Some government like Quebec offer different programs of education to seniors.

4. Music and Dancing

Dancing? Though movement for some seniors is limited, like everybody else, we can appreciate music and dancing even if we don’t have those talents.

To volunteers who continue to visit to sing and dance for them, continue doing so. Not only do they feel good about it but it greatly helps with their health. Music has a powerful way to some. It can help them remember their youth and may even help with memory recovery.

5. Care for a Plant

If our seniors can’t appreciate art, music or baking. Maybe they have a green thumb. Caring for a plant or having a small garden for your grandparent or senior companion is one great habit. Not only does it let them move but it also gives them a feeling of responsibility.

6. Watch Family Videos and Albums

If the past is something your seniors love, this will be a good habit for them. If you have videos and photo albums that need labeling or identifying, ask for their help. Give them the opportunity to remember and tell the stories that come with those photos. There might be some funny and great memories you haven’t found out yet.

7. Play Board Games and Puzzles

If Bingo stimulates our senior’s brain, then so do some board games and puzzles. Not only are these best for the seniors but for all ages. Puzzles have the capacity to re-ignite some parts of our brain that may have stayed dull for a long while.

8. Watch or Do some Science Education Activities

Do you think you’re updated with science? Share this with your seniors. Not only would they love to hear about it but they could share their equal enthusiasm. That cool online video of new discoveries doesn’t only work for your kid. Your 6-year old daughter and your 66-year old senior could be awed for new scientific discoveries.

Don’t assume that being old means being knowledgeable. Things recently discovered or documented and filmed are something interesting for them, too.

9. Walk or Exercise

Yes, nothing beats physical activities in keeping our seniors healthy. It’s a good habit to walk with them in the morning or the evening. Taichi and some forms of yoga could work best with them, too. Never underestimate the capacity of a senior. You’d be amazed at how they’d love to move around.

Boredom has proven to be one of the causes of getting a higher chance of heart problem. So whether we are young and old, we need to develop good habits to keep our mind working and our brains active.

Oh and just a few reminders here, too. Don’t forget to take breaks between these activities with your seniors. Keep in mind to help your seniors build a good healthy habit that they are interested with. Continue to support them as they learn new things or keep doing their old good habits. And of course don’t forget, to exercise with them!

]]>https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/9-healthy-habits-for-seniors/feed/0Christmas: A Season of Hope, Love and Happinesshttps://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/christmas-a-season-of-hope-love-and-happiness/
https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/christmas-a-season-of-hope-love-and-happiness/#commentsFri, 21 Dec 2018 14:00:23 +0000https://www.liveyourretirement.com/blog/?p=2110It’s the busiest time of the year once again! Before New Year starts, our loved ones await the opportunity of time, love and attention this holiday brings. Christmas holds precious memories of each of our beloved. It’s time to add more of those lasting memories. We express our gratitude to our dear seniors who have found […]

It’s the busiest time of the year once again! Before New Year starts, our loved ones await the opportunity of time, love and attention this holiday brings. Christmas holds precious memories of each of our beloved. It’s time to add more of those lasting memories.

We express our gratitude to our dear seniors who have found the best retirement homes through our website. To the caregivers, nurses and family members who give their best in taking care of our seniors, we thank you for constantly inspiring us to do better. To our partners who continue to provide great services and loving homes, we thank you for being one in our mission to give the best at all times.

As we visit our grandparents, at their home or at retirement homes, let us bring our children and friends. Our seniors love Christmas and look forward to everyone’s visit. There is magic in each one’s presence. Truly, when we make our seniors happy, we find happiness in us, too.